Only Philippines has legitimate right over West Philippine Sea – Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — Only Filipinos have the “legitimate right” to operate anywhere in the West Philippine Sea, President Marcos has asserted, stressing that the country would remain steadfast in the defense of its sovereignty amid China’s continued “dangerous actions against our citizens.”

In a strongly worded statement posted on his social media accounts late Sunday, Marcos denounced the latest “aggression and provocations” by the Chinese coast guard and maritime militia against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea.

“No one but the Philippines has a legitimate right or legal basis to operate anywhere in the West Philippine Sea. The illegal presence in our waters and dangerous actions against our citizens is an outright and blatant violation of international law and the rules-based international order,” Marcos said.

“The aggression and provocations perpetrated by the China Coast Guard and their Chinese Maritime Militia against our vessels and personnel over the weekend have only further steeled our determination to defend and protect our nation’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea,” he declared.

Chinese naval vessels attacked with water cannons Philippine vessels en route to Ayungin Shoal to deliver provisions to a military outpost on BRP Sierra Madre on Sunday.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. was on board one of the vessels – the wooden hulled Unnaiza Mae 1 – which got bumped by a Chinese coast guard ship, as it made its way to the Sierra Madre.

Another resupply vessel, M/L Kalayaan, sustained engine damage and had to be towed back to port. PCG’s BRP Cabra sustained damage to its mast due to the water cannon blast.

“I have been in constant communication with our national security and defense leadership, and have directed our uniformed services to conduct their missions with the utmost regard for the safety of our personnel, yet proceed with a mission-oriented mindset,” Marcos said.

“To our gallant service members, be assured of our utmost gratitude and fullest support. We remain undeterred,” he said.

“Let me reiterate what is settled and widely recognized: Ayungin Shoal is within